Playgroup

The aim of Steiner Playgroups is to develop a sanctuary for safe play for children and an oasis of peace, friendship and a healthy activity for parents

Our playgroup sessions are filled with music, movement, verse and song. Playgroup is essentially a family experience. It provides an opportunity for parents to meet and for children to play alongside and experience being in the presence of other children. The environment is prepared to meet the child’s nature and needs. We offer a variety of playgroup sessions: usually they are in the morning between 9:30am and 11:30am.

Our playgroup offers songs, stories and the use of natural materials and simple toys to encourage the child’s imagination. The rhythm of active and quiet play are carefully planned to create a safe and joyous environment that is both enriching and nourishing.

The Importance of Rhythm

Key aspects of our program include a regular secure rhythm and adult work as a model for imitative play. Rhythm helps to create a practicable and secure environment. The young child is held and contained by the security of this rhythm. We use songs, rhymes and actions to indicate that we are approaching the next part of the session. This allows for smooth transitions and minimises a need for verbal instruction. Our rhythm accommodates the need for ‘breathing in’ and ‘breathing out’. The breathing in phase the child is drawing their attention to an activity that relates to themselves; bread making, drawing. Breathing out relates to the surrounding world; free running, playing. There needs to be a balance between each phase. Children also have considerable time outside for play. Our outside play garden is a nourishing and secure environment for the young child.

Rhythm of a Playgroup Session:

Bread Time

Free play (and craft for adults)

Circle/Shared Meal

Outside Play

Story time

Stories are told at playgroup not read, this engages the child’s imagination allowing them to create their own individual pictures. The teller, our playgroup leader, presents the story very simply and slowly allowing the child to enjoy the story themselves. The story also marks the end of the session.

We offer a free trial playgroup session for you to experience our playgroup. If you would like to attend please phone the office to make arrangements.

Session Times

The following sessions are currently being offered for Ballarat Steiner School Playgroup for parents with children: